Thanks for all the replies...

Robin - It has a plastic covering, and if I had to guess, I'd say it's about 65 years old. A pic can temporarily be found here... http://coyote.ycp.edu/~swestgat/images/accordion.jpg . I believe my grandmother bought it new and she did play it herself. But ever since she gave it up it's been sitting in her house unused...probably for about 40-50 years. She had also given me a beginner's book, "Zordan's Piano Accordion Junior Method" which has a copyright from 1932. I'm using this to learn the basics.

I'd like a smaller accordion for reasons similar to the ones Martin and Peter T. had mentioned...in addition to the sound quality.

Anyone know of any decent 48-72 bass accordions for under $400? I realize the high quality one's are well above that, but I can't afford to spend much more. This is just a hobby for me.

Thanks!
Scott